Discuss system attacks and threats to cyberspace resulting in four types of losses

Discuss system attacks and threats to cyberspace resulting in four types of losses

Answer:-

Cloud computing, clusters, grids, and peer-to-peer (P2P) networks are widely used in modern digital systems. However, these systems face various threats and security risks. System attacks can cause serious problems, including loss of data, service interruptions, and unauthorized access. There are four major types of losses that can result from these threats.

1. Loss of Confidentiality

This happens when private or sensitive information is exposed to unauthorized users. It can be caused by information leaks, hacking, or virus attacks. Once confidentiality is lost, the data is no longer secure.

2. Loss of Data Integrity

Data integrity is affected when the original content of data is changed or modified without permission. This can happen due to Trojan horse programs, user alterations, or service spoofing attacks. As a result, users may get incorrect or misleading information.

3. Loss of System Availability

This refers to the situation when systems or services become unavailable to users. It is mainly caused by Denial of Service (DoS) or Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. These attacks overload the system, blocking access to legitimate users.

4. Loss of Access Control (Authentication and Authorization)

When authentication or authorization fails, unauthorized users may get access to system resources. This leads to the illegal use of computing resources, like servers, storage, or internet services. It can also allow attackers to cause further damage inside the system.

• Network viruses and worms can create large-scale damage by spreading quickly and affecting routers and servers.
• Open resources like clouds, clusters, grids, and P2P systems become targets without proper security.
• System vulnerabilities must be handled using defense technologies and proper security practices.

Defense Mechanisms:

1. First Generation: Tools like cryptography and access control to prevent attacks.
2. Second Generation: Technologies such as firewalls, Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), and PKI services to detect attacks and respond in time.
3. Third Generation: Advanced, intelligent systems for automatic response to threats.

Security Responsibilities in Cloud Models:

• SaaS: Provider is fully responsible for all security.
• PaaS: Provider manages data integrity and availability; user handles confidentiality.
• IaaS: User is mostly responsible for security, especially confidentiality.